ASUS Z690-AÂ Overview
Harness the power of 12th Gen Intel processors with the PRIME Z690-A ATX LGA 1700 Motherboard from ASUS. Designed for gaming enthusiasts, the PRIME Z690-A provides robust functionality enabling you to install resource-demanding components such as high-end RAM modules and graphics cards.
An Intel Z690 chipset rests as the heart of this motherboard, giving you access to an LGA 1700 socket, four dual-channel DDR5 RAM slots, four SATA III ports, and four M.2 interfaces. Install a wide range of graphics and utility cards with a multitude of expansion slots including one PCIe 5.0 x16, one PCIe 3.0 x16, one PCIe 3.0 x4, and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. An array of USB ports and headers allows you to connect resource-demanding peripherals such as external drives and more with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 Type-A and Type-C Ports. The USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C port provides greater power for devices like audio interfaces and mass storage devices. A Realtek 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port delivers and enhanced data signal, giving you a solid connection essential for competitive online gaming. The PRIME Z690-A supports Windows 10 (64-Bit) as well as Windows 11 (64-Bit) right out of the box.
Designed for 12th Gen Intel Processors
Designed to be used with 12th Gen Intel processors, the PRIME motherboard leverages the CPU’s power to deliver power and connectivity suitable for business professionals and gamers alike. When paired with an Intel 12th Gen processor, you unlock PCIe 5.0 connectivity, enhancing speeds for your DDR5 RAM, M.2 storage devices, and your x16 expansion slot. Additionally, you gain support for Intel Boost Technology 2.0 and Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, enhancing system-wide performance.
Power Design
The PRIME motherboard promotes durability, reliability, and stable power delivery with a 16+1 DrMOS system, alloy chokes, and capacitors. ProCool connectors enhance conductivity between power cables and the motherboard interfaces ensuring your motherboard is gaining optimal connection to the power supply.
Cooling
Sporting a comprehensive cooling system designed to balance power and temperature, the PRIME Z690-A utilizes many tools such as a large VRM heatsink, M.2 heatsink, and M.2 backplate with Q-Latch all designed to dissipate heat away from major board components. Hybrid fan headers allow you to connect and manage PWM fans, while Fan Xpert 4 software enables you to adjust fan settings when needed.
ASUS OptiMem II
Using ASUS’ proprietary trace layout, the PRIME motherboard allows memory kits to operate at higher frequencies and lower voltages to optimize system performance.
ASUS 5X Protection III
Ensure your system is protected with a multitude of enhancements designed to maintain power and performance efficiency. DIGI+ VRM, ESD Guards, Enhanced DRAM Overcurrent Protection, LANGuard, Overvoltage Protection, SafeSlot, and a Stainless-Steel Back I/O all work together to keep your system running.
ASUS Q-Design
ASUS designed the PRIME Z690-A with an array of accessibility options designed to streamline installation of components and simplify troubleshooting. M.2 Q-Latch, Q-Slot, and Q-Connectors provide support when installing M.2 storage drives, graphics cards, and front-panel cables, respectively. Q-DIMM makes installing RAM modules easy, enabling you to only flip one DIMM lock on the outside section instead of both. Q-LED Code tells you when key parts of your system are functioning as normal upon startup, which makes troubleshooting easy in the event of a failure.
DIY Friendly
Whether you are new or a seasoned builder, the PRIME boasts key enhancements designed to make installation of components a snap. A pre-mounted I/O shield enables you to install the motherboard into your case without fumbling with a metal shield. The PCIe 5.0 x16 expansion port features SafeSlot technology which uses a metal bracket to reinforce the stability of the expansion port for greater retention, ideal for larger graphics cards. Clear CMOS button allows you to reset your BIOS to factory default. Additional features include a CPU socket lever protector and integrated box headers.
Immersive Audio
Dive into your favorite games and experience high-fidelity sound with Realtek S1220A 7.1-channel surround sound. A dedicated internal audio amplifier enhances sound for both headphones and speakers with impedance sense, designed to provide the ideal sound setting for your titles. Jack detection, multi-streaming, and front-panel jack retasking provide additional access points for custom sound preferences. Power pre-regulator reduces power input noise to ensure consistent performance when playing your games. Audio shielding, rear optical S/PDIF out port, premium audio capacitors, dedicated audio PCB layers, audio cover, and unique de-pop circuit support all work together to reduce crosstalk between onboard components for clear and immersive sound. Additionally, you have support with DTS:X Ultra sound, adding additional layers to your audio experience.
Thunderbolt 4 Header
An internal Thunderbolt header allows you to connect an optional Thunderbolt 4 card for enhanced connectivity. Experience up to 40 Gb/s data transfer speeds, daisy-chain capabilities, and displays for streamlined productivity.
Customization
Illuminate your rig in an array of colors and effects with integrated RGB headers. Able to be used in tandem with ASUS AURA Sync and Armoury Crate, you can set custom colors and effects across internal lighting strips as well as external peripherals, adding a layer of self-expression to your desktop.
AI Suite 3
Take advantage of performance and power saving utilities and more with AI Suite 3 which uses an artificial intelligence to manage your system, taking the guesswork out so you can spend more time being productive. You get 5-Way optimization with AI overclocking, TPU, EPU, DIGI+ VRM, and Turbo App, each giving you several accessible options when it comes to squeezing additional performance out of your system.
UEFI BIOS
Manage your system and enable overclocking with UEFI BIOS. Advanced mode allows you to fine-tune your system with a wide range of settings and options while EZ mode simplifies the experience. EZ Flash 3 allows you to upgrade your BIOS firmware to the latest iteration by using a USB drive to save and upload the file. The CrashFree BIOS 3 rescue function resets your system in the event of an update failure or corruption. FlexKey allows you to change the reset button on your case to control other aspects of your system such as lighting effects. You also gain access to an AI Overclocking guide.
